Burundi, officially the Republic of Burundi, is a landlocked country located in the African Great Lakes region. Bordered by Rwanda to the north, Tanzania to the east and south, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo to the west, Burundi is highly populated with a population density of 422 people per square kilometer. Kigali is the capital city, but Bujumbura is the largest and most populous city in Burundi.
Expat destinations in Burundi
Demographics of Burundi:
Ethnic groups
The majority of the population is composed of the Hutu, Tutsi, and Twa ethnic groups. The Hutu make up around 85% of the population, followed by the Tutsi at around 14%.
Languages
French and Kirundi (aka Rundi) are both official languages. Kirundi is a Bantu language spoken by the majority of the population, while French is primarily used in government and business.
Religion Overview
Burundi is predominantly Christian, with an estimated 96% of the population identifying as Christian. Roman Catholicism is the largest denomination, followed by Protestantism.
Major Religions
Climate
Burundi has a tropical climate that is generally hot and humid, with occasional rainfall throughout the year. Temperatures are relatively constant, with average highs around 26°C and average lows around 16°C. The rainy season lasts from February to May, and the dry season lasts from June to January.
Economy Overview
Burundi has one of the lowest gross domestic products (GDPs) in the world, with a per capita income of around $157 as of 2021. Agriculture is the primary industry, with coffee, cotton, and tea being the main exports. Other industries include forestry, mining, and manufacturing.
Key Industries
- Agriculture
Major Companies
Culture and Language Overview
Burundi's culture is heavily influenced by its ethnic groups and Christian traditions. The Intore dance is a popular tradition that has gained international recognition, and it is often performed at festivals and ceremonial events. Other cultural practices include traditional farming methods and handicraft production. Kirundi and French are both widely spoken languages.
Cultural Highlights
- Intore Dance
- Traditional Farming Methods
- Handicraft Production
- Festivals such as N’yakusanga
Geography and Landmarks Overview
Burundi is home to several noteworthy landmarks, including Lake Tanganyika, which is also the second-largest lake in Africa and the second-deepest lake in the world. The country is also home to the Pays des Milles Collines (Land of a Thousand Hills), a scenic region that was made famous by the Rwandan Genocide depicted in the movie 'Hotel Rwanda'.
Notable Landmarks
- Lake Tanganyika
- Pays des Milles Collines
- Gitega (Burundi's previous capital city)
- Bujumbura (Burundi's largest city)
National Holidays
- New Year's Day (January 1)
- Independence Day (July 1)
- Liberation Day (July 2)
- Assumption Day (August 15)
- All Saints' Day (November 1)
- Christmas Day (December 25)
Political Stability
Burundi has experienced political instability in recent years, with a failed coup in 2015 and ongoing tensions regarding the president's bid for a third term. The country has been marred by political violence and human rights abuses, leading to displacement of both refugees and internally displaced persons. Efforts are being made to promote stability and reconciliation.
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